Fatty Acid
Fatty Acid — a type of lipid built from a chain of carbon atoms that serves as one of the core building blocks of the skin barrier and of many plant oils used in skincare. Free fatty acids in the skin help form its protective lipid layers and contribute to a healthy surface pH.
Key points
- Free fatty acids are one of the three main lipid classes that structure the skin barrier, alongside ceramides and cholesterol.
- Fatty acids are described as saturated or unsaturated depending on their chemical structure.
- Essential fatty acids like linoleic acid cannot be made by the body and are obtained from the diet or topical oils.
- Plant oils such as sunflower and safflower are rich sources of skin-supporting fatty acids.
Frequently asked
What is an essential fatty acid?
An essential fatty acid, such as linoleic acid, is one the body cannot produce on its own and must obtain from the diet or, for the skin, from topical sources.
Are fatty acids good for the skin barrier?
Yes, free fatty acids are a structural component of the barrier's lipid layers and help support moisture retention and a balanced surface pH.
Related topics
This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.
